Worcester City Council has drawn up a draft Community Recovery Strategy to help ensure people across the city get the support they need as the city and the nation start to come out of lockdown.
The draft Strategy, which will be considered by the Communities Committee on Wednesday July 22, is a broad-ranging plan that includes promoting physical exercise, tackling homelessness, supporting volunteers and people who are shielding, helping victims of domestic abuse and much more.
Cllr Lynn Denham, Vice Chair of the Communities Committee, said: "The coronavirus has had an inescapable impact on every single resident of our city. Although many restrictions are now being lifted, there is not going to be a quick bounce back for many. The City Council will do all it can to help our communities recover and support each other towards the 'new normal'."
The draft Community Recovery Strategy sets out proposed actions for the Council in nine areas.
Housing & Homelessness – helping people at risk of becoming homeless to stay in their homes, and ensuring temporary accommodation is available for those who require it.
Leisure, Recreation & Well-being – re-opening sports centres, completing the refurbishment of tennis courts in Cripplegate and Gheluvelt parks, and encouraging exercise, including walking and cycling.
Financial Hardship & Welfare Support – providing financial support and advice for the city's vulnerable residents; helping residents to access mental health, substance misuse and debt advice if they need it.
Anti-Social Behaviour – engaging with and supporting young people to make good choices; working with the Police to help residents feel safe and reassured within their communities.
Domestic Abuse – working with partners to provide safe accommodation and support to victims of domestic abuse.
Community Empowerment & Volunteering – working with the city's different communities and voluntary groups to support and strengthen them as they recover from COVID-19, celebrating the efforts of organisations, groups and individuals who have supported our city through the pandemic
Supporting Bereaved Families & Commemoration – providing a first class service to the bereaved, working with funeral directors and families to help with funeral costs where necessary, and engaging with communities to commemorate those who lost their lives to COVID-19.
Shielding & Vulnerable Population – providing welfare checks for vulnerable individuals, supporting voluntary and community organisations, and working with the county-wide Here2Help community hub.
Rough Sleepers – helping rough sleepers to leave the streets and enter permanent accommodation.
The Communities Committee will be asked to approve the allocation of £15,000 of funding from COVID-19-related Government funding to support and progress the strategy's priorities.
The meeting is at 7pm on Wednesday July 22. Listen live at www.worcester.gov.uk.
